Hudson (Anderson Billionaires #4) - Melody Anne Page 0,27

less was going to whichever organization they were supporting.

“I can see the wheels turning,” Finn told him with a laugh. “Yes, this event is costing a lot, but three quarters of the people in here wouldn’t give ten thousand dollars unless it was for an event like this, so overall it raises far more money than it costs.”

“I’d give more to not have to come,” Hudson said.

“And you’re definitely the exception to the rule,” Noah told him.

“I guess that’s a good point. But do they have to do so many of these things? It’s apparently considered rude if you don’t show up according to Uncle Joseph.”

“Some of us like other people,” Noah said. “Quit being a scrooge. They’re going to have a show in a few minutes.”

“Just an auction, right?” Hudson asked.

“The auction finishes off the night. The show is singing and dancing,” Noah said.

“Joy,” Hudson muttered, wondering if he could sneak away.

The conversation continued before the lights flashed and a person stepped out on the big stage. The room quieted as a local celebrity flashed his brilliantly white teeth.

“Thank you all for being here. So far with the silent auction and seat tickets we’ve raised just over three million dollars for Habitat for Humanity. That will build a lot of homes for people who truly appreciate your generosity. We have reporters coming around, giving interviews as dinner is served. You have one seat at each table reserved for media. They’ll be asking what you think about the program we’re doing, and probably trying to guilt you to volunteer your time in helping to build these homes. The money goes a long way, but for those of you with skills, your expertise is valued just as much. We don’t want to simply slap these homes together; the stronger they’re built, the longer they’ll stand. Let’s take pride in what we’re doing every single day,” the man said.

“Damn it. They’re totally going to rope us in,” Hudson murmured.

Finn and Noah laughed. “They already got to us,” Noah said. “We’re volunteering in two weeks. I’m sure you’re next.”

Hudson looked toward the exit, wondering if he could escape. He’d make a valiant effort trying. The servers began setting plates down, and Hudson took the distraction as an opportune time to slip away.

He didn’t say anything as he stood and made his way toward an exit sign. When the cool Seattle air hit his face, he sighed with relief. He knew he was being overly dramatic, but it had been a hell of a day, a hell of a week for that matter.

He moved to the corner of the building while he tried to decide if he was going to go back inside. He wasn’t worried about the food; his brothers would polish it off if he didn’t return soon. For now, he pulled out a cigar he kept with him at these events. Not only were they good conversation starters and an excuse to get away from the massive crowds, but the shot of nicotine calmed his nerves.

“I see other people like to hide out here as well,” a chuckling voice said from the corner.

Busted!

Hudson turned to find Joseph leaning against the building.

“It was pretty loud in there,” Hudson admitted as he clipped the end of his cigar and took a whiff. Delicious. He pulled out his lighter when Joseph glared at him.

“It’s rude not to share, boy,” he said with a raised brow.

Hudson laughed. “I thought Aunt Katherine banned you from cigars,” he taunted. Joseph looked around to make sure his wife wasn’t there before placing a hand on his hip.

“I’m not banned from anything. Now share,” Joseph said.

“Haha, big man when the wife isn’t nearby,” Hudson said beneath his breath which earned him another glare. It was a good thing he packed more than one. Hudson pulled another out, and handed it over. Joseph took a moment to study it.

“I see your taste has improved . . . thankfully,” he said before taking the clipper from Hudson and getting the cigar ready. Part of the fun of a good cigar was the ritual that went into preparing it.

“I never was a cigar smoker before meeting you. Now I’m hooked,” Hudson told him.

“I’ve cut back in recent years. Yes, to please my wife, but also because I want to live two hundred years, so I have to be careful,” Joseph told him.

They both sighed as they took their first puffs. A sweet, smoky flavor danced on their tongues. That first taste of